Vivah

Vivah is a Sanskrit-derived term meaning marriage, widely used across Indian languages such as Hindi, Marathi, Gujarati, Bengali, Kannada, Tamil, and Telugu. It denotes the social and religious institution that unites two people and their families, with customs varying by region and community. In Hinduism, vivaha samskara is traditionally listed as one of the sixteen life-cycle rites (samskaras) marking the transition to married life.

Rituals and regional variation: Common elements in many Hindu weddings include the exchange of garlands (jaimala or varmala), the seven circumambulations around a sacred fire (saptapadi), the tying of the mangalsutra (a sacred necklace) by the groom, and the kanyadaan (the giving away of the bride by her father or guardian). Other customs such as engagement, mehendi, and the vidaai, or bride’s departure from home, are also observed in various communities. South Indian weddings may emphasize different rites, such as temple ceremonies or region-specific vow exchanges.

Legal framework and social context: In India, marriages are governed by several acts depending on religion. The Hindu Marriage Act (1955) governs Hindu weddings, while the Special Marriage Act (1954) provides civil registration for interfaith and intercultural marriages. Other communities have their own personal laws; civil registration ensures legal recognition for all. In the Indian diaspora, vivah often blends religious rites with civil formalities.

Contemporary trends: Modern marriages increasingly reflect love-based unions, inter-caste and interfaith alliances, and evolving norms on gender roles, while addressing concerns such as dowry and consent.